Determinants of Knowledge, Practice, Belief and Adherence to Taboos on Egg Consumption in Kwazulu-Natal Province of South Africa

Eggs are considered to be one of the cheapest sources of protein, hence, support for their consumption ought to be particularly sought after in a nation like South Africa where many may be food insecure. With much of the population being unemployed and the unsteady economy that has contributed to the higher cost of living, malnutrition remains a challenge. The recognition and dissection of the socio-economic variables that lead to the avoidance of egg consumption will allow the implantation of programs that will encourage the incremental utilization of eggs, to improve on the moderately lower per capita consumption when compared to some African countries. This study examines the determinants of knowledge, practice, belief, and adherence to taboos on egg consumption in the KwaZulu- Natal Province of South Africa where there is the lowest level of egg consumption compared to other provinces in the country. A descriptive and quantitative research design using a multi-stage sampling technique and the Rao Soft sample size calculator were used to select 125 households. Data were obtained with the use of a structured questionnaire and analysed with t-test statistics, Principal Component analysis and Probit regression analysis. The results show a significant relationship between egg consumption and taboos. The results revealed a decreasing order on the levels of knowledge, practice, belief and adherence to taboos among respondents. The study concluded that cultural reasons exercise a greater influence on egg consumption than socioeconomic, economic and availability factors. It is, therefore, recommended that interventions such as educational programs that encourage healthier eating behaviours should be designed and implemented. These programs should be designed in a way that will incorporate culturally relevant approaches that people in Kwazulu-Natal can resonate with to enhance their potential effectiveness in improving the frequency of egg consumption. Furthermore, it is recommended that future research should delve deeper into the history of the specific cultural norms, beliefs and practices surrounding egg consumption within the region.